Parking signaling system

ABSTRACT

A system is disclosed to communicate in vehicular traffic an intention of a driver of a vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver. The system includes a display generating a signal to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle. The signal is distinct from and in addition to a turn signal for the vehicle indicating an intended left turn or right turn.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This disclosure is claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 61/900,459 filed on Nov. 6, 2013 which is hereby incorporated byreference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is related to a motor vehicle signaling device thatdiscloses to other drivers that a driver of a present vehicle isintending to parallel park.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this section merely provide background informationrelated to the present disclosure. Accordingly, such statements are notintended to constitute an admission of prior art.

Parallel parking is a method of parking a vehicle in line with otherparked cars at the edge of a road or street; parallel to the curb at theedge of a road. Often this is between two other parked vehicles and asthis is more difficult to do than angled parking, It often causes greatdifficulty for many drivers, especially when there are no other parkingoptions other than to parallel park. This is common in downtown areasand in large metropolitan areas. In the best of circumstances parallelparking is among one of the hardest challenges drivers face. Often adriver will circle a block until a space becomes available, and thenattempt to park in the newly available spot. When parking, the driverwill pull up along side a parked vehicle in front of the space where heor she desires to park and then back into the desired parking space.Unfortunately; this maneuver is often performed in a high traffic areaand as this driver is stopping, another vehicle stops just a few feetbehind the vehicle that is attempting to park, blocking the pathway.This is despite the fact that the driver of the parking vehicle hasturned on the right turn signal and placed the car into “reverse”, whichturns on the vehicles backup lights.

Traffic behind the car that is attempting to parallel park have no ideawhat is about to happen, as the combination of right turn signal andback-up lights does not universally signal an intention to park.

SUMMARY

A system is disclosed to communicate in vehicular traffic an intentionof a driver of a vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver. Thesystem includes a display generating a signal to indicate to otherdrivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to eithera left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle. The signal isdistinct from and in addition to a turn signal for the vehicleindicating an intended left turn or right turn.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments will now be described, by way of example, withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a vehicle attempting a parallel parking maneuverutilizing prior art, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 1A illustrates the vehicle driving along a road and approaching aparking space;

FIG. 1B illustrates the vehicle pulling past the parking space inpreparation for a parallel parking maneuver; and

FIG. 1C illustrates other vehicles pulling behind the vehicle andunintentionally block the intended parallel parking maneuver;

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a vehicle executing a parallel parking maneuverutilizing a parking assist light (PAL) system, in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2A illustrates the vehicle approaching a parking space andactivating the PAL system;

FIG. 2B illustrates the vehicle pulling past the parking space inpreparation for the parking maneuver and the next vehicle, the driverbeing informed of the desired maneuver by the PAL system, leaving spacefor the parking vehicle to execute the maneuver; and

FIG. 2C illustrates the vehicle completing the parallel parkingmaneuver, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary PAL system light bar, in accordance withthe present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates exemplary control buttons enabling activation of thePAL system and corresponding light signals, in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating exemplary components of a PAL moduleincluding a microprocessor configured to operate computerized functionsrelated to the PAL system, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for using a PALsystem, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a PAL systemlight bar, utilizing portions of an arrow to indicate to a desiredparking maneuver both to the left or right of the vehicle and to thefront or rearward of the vehicle, in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a vehicle including an aftermarket PAL system lightbar displayed in a rear window of the vehicle, in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates the aftermarket PAL system light bar of FIG. 8,accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary PAL system light bar including a matrixof lights and configured to additionally act as a brake light, inaccordance with the present disclosure;

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate operation of an exemplary PAL system light barincluding a matrix of lights and indicating through a series of displayimages both operation of a braking function and intention to execute aparallel parking maneuver, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary turn signal including PAL indicatorlights incorporated therewith, in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 13 illustrates a headlamp device of a vehicle including PALindicator lights incorporated therewith, in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary controls enabling a driver to control thePAL system installed to an instrument panel of a vehicle, in accordancewith the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary vehicle equipped with the PAL systemproviding an audio warning to a pedestrian walking proximately to thevehicle, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary vehicle equipped with the PAL systemsituated between two open parking spaces and operation of the PAL systemto determine a driver's intent to park in one of the spaces, inaccordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 illustrates a vehicle equipped with the PAL system evaluating aparking space as a candidate for a parallel parking maneuver, inaccordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary vehicle equipped with the PAL systemusing a laser to project a pattern and visually designate a parkingspace in which it is about to park, in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary vehicle equipped with the PAL systemautomatically entering a parking mode based upon behavior of the vehiclein relation to parking spaces in a parking lot, in accordance with thepresent disclosure; and

FIG. 20 illustrates exemplary vehicles equipped with the PAL systemautomatically entering a parking mode based upon behavior of the vehiclein relation to an open parking space along a side of the roadway, inaccordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Signals between drivers of vehicles avoid confusion. Sometimes,cooperation by one driver is required for a second driver to achieve adesired maneuver in traffic. A turn signal can be used to signal betweendrivers an intention to change lanes. Such a signal can cause a driverin the desired lane to make room for the desired maneuver. Without thesignal, the driver wanting to change lanes would simply need to waituntil the surrounding traffic pattern happened to permit the desiredmaneuver.

Similarly, a maneuver to parallel park by one driver can requirecooperation from a second driver. Referring now to the drawings, whereinthe showings are for the purpose of illustrating certain exemplaryembodiments only and not for the purpose of limiting the same, FIGS.1A-1C illustrate a parallel parking attempt utilizing upon prior art.FIG. 1A illustrates a vehicle 10 driving down a road 28. On the farright side is a curb 24 and on the far left is the traffic diving line26. Parked next to curb 24 are parked vehicles 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15.An open parking space 22 is available.

FIG. 1B illustrates vehicle 10 driving past space 22 in preparation forbeginning a parallel parking maneuver into space 22. Vehicle 10 may usea turning signal known in the art to indicate the desire to parallelpark. However, a turning signal can indicate a number of maneuvers toother drivers. A turning signal could indicate a desire to turn at anext stop light or to double park next to vehicle 12. As a result ofthis lack of communicated intent, vehicle 34 in traffic pulls up behindvehicle 10. The driver of vehicle 10 may hand signal or wait in hopes ofvehicle 34 backing up and making room for the parallel parking maneuver,but the driver of vehicle 34 may have no clear indication of theintentions of the driver of vehicle 10.

FIG. 1C illustrates vehicle 10 waiting for the driver of vehicle 34 tomake room for vehicle 10 to execute the parallel parking maneuver.Vehicles 35 and 36 are illustrated pulling up behind vehicle 34. Oncetraffic is backed up behind vehicle 10, no possibility exists toefficiently make room for the desired parallel parking maneuver. Thedriver of vehicle 10 has no choice but to abandon the open parking space22.

A parking assist light (PAL) system is disclosed communicating a desireby a driver of a vehicle to parallel park. According to one embodiment,the PAL system can include a parallel parking light bar is a light barthat is mounted at the rear of a vehicle. It can be either a removableafter-market light bar, or a permanent original equipment manufacturer(OEM) light bar that is built into the vehicle. While the housing of thelight can be chrome and automotive grade sealed polycarbonate plastic,other materials such as aluminum or steel are also suitable. The lightscan be either incandescent, LED, or any other light emitting deviceknown in the art. A portable or aftermarket version can be batterypowered and activated by a dashboard mounted remote control via infraredlight or low-powered radio signal. An OEM version can be hard-wired. Inone embodiment, the portable system can be plugged into a vehicle'selectrical system via a cigarette lighter or another method.

The PAL system is an innovative audio and visual lighting system thatalerts drivers and pedestrians of a drivers intention to park. Every dayhundreds of motorist weave their way through chaotic city streets. Oncethe driver reaches their destination they will need to park their car.This is fine and poses not challenge when parking in the driveway orgarage. There is no one there, parking is easily accessible and it isthe perfect space. This is not the case when parking on a busy street orin a congested parking lot. A lot of people are blissfully unaware ofthe dangers the act of parking a car poses to drivers and pedestriansalike.

People lack parking sense and parallel parking is not something thatmost people do flawlessly As a matter of fact 21% of drivers avoidparallel parking whenever possible and another 10% of drivers avoidparallel parking altogether. Often the main culprit for driver anxietyis traffic. Drivers can be discourteous to people attempting to park. Adriver often feels pressured to park quickly when there are othersbehind them. If the task seems to be to arduous or time consuming thedriver will circle to block or look for another space. If the driverdecides to attempt to park in a space they may find that there is notenough space left between them and the car behind them to attempt topark into the space. 58% of motorists admit to giving up and driving offif they are unable to maneuver into a space due to traffic congestion.On average drivers will spend an average of four minutes attempting toget into a space before giving up. Parallel parking also lends to theperfect conditions for traffic incidents.

The following are the most common causes of crashes due to parallelparking: vehicle parked in roadway, vehicle leaving/entering parkingspace, passenger exiting/entering parked vehicle, reduced sight distancefor vehicles and pedestrians (especially near intersections),

While specific statistics focused on the number of pedestrian vs.vehicle and motorcyclist/bicyclist vs. vehicle in relation to parallelparking are not available there are numerous stories relating thedangers. In March of this year a 77 year old women was reportedly struckand killed by a driver in the midst of parallel parking. MarleneBaharlias, 77, was jaywalking when she stepped off a curb mid-blockbetween and was struck by a man as he pulled forward to parallel park.Unfortunately the driver was unable to see Marlene Baharlias between twoparked cars due to the reduced visibility common to parallel parking.

Believe it or not parking lots are even more treacherous and difficultto navigate. When most people get out of their vehicle in a parking lot,they don't think twice about walking down the aisles and then headingtoward a store. The problem is, though, drivers aren't always socareful. Parking lots are one of the likeliest places for fender bendersto occur because individuals are the least concentrated on driving andmore focused on finding a parking space. There are actually quite a fewpedestrian parking lot accidents that result in serious injury or evendeath.

Most people feel a false sense of security in a parking lot becausedrivers tend to go more slowly, but that doesn't mean anyone is safe.There is always a chance of an accident. Beyond that, pedestrians mustwalk over payment be undamaged or unkempt. As a result, trips and fallscould be common. One slip and fall could result in serious injury.

Parking lot accidents can vary depending on the situation, and thatmeans the causes can vary as well. Some of the most common causes ofaccidents that resulted in pedestrian injury include:

Congestion in parking lots causes accidents. When parking lots are busyand crowded, it is harder to maneuver.

Vehicles backing out without looking cause accidents. Drivers cannotalways see if someone is walking behind them.

Gaps in traffic laws or poor enforcement cause accidents. Traffic lawslike stop signs are unenforceable in private parking lots.

Drivers too focused on finding a good parking space cause accidents.When drivers get too distracted worrying about finding a space, they maynot notice pedestrians.

All-in-all, pedestrian accidents in parking lots occur because someoneis just not paying attention. Just because the cars are going veryslowly, people assume the injuries may not be that bad. However, thatisn't necessarily the case. Injuries can be severe or even fatal.

According to studies, statistics show that parking lot accidents can bevery dangerous. The following statistics are provided: 99 fatalities and2,000 injuries occurred from cars backing out of parking spaces in oneyear and 106 fatalities and 5,000 injuries occurred to pedestrians fromvehicles that were moving forward in parking lots. Most people cannoteven imagine a parking lot accident being fatal, but they can be. Carsare still very large and very heavy even going at a slower rate ofspeed. When a pedestrian is hit, they can still suffer fatal injuries.

Prior to parking, be it curbside or in a parking lot, the user will beable to signal to other cars that they are parking as well as providedirectional information. This is made possible by the use of LED lightswithin the headlights and taillights. Upon activating the PAL SystemsLED lights will light up sequentially ending in an arc or arrowindicating which direction the user will be cutting their wheels. Inconjunction with the parking light indicator there will be an externalaudible buzzer/chime that will sound in unison with the lightingsequence. The light sequence and the external buzzer/chime will be workin a similar fashion to the reverse warning beeps used in large trucks.The system could be activated by a button placed on thedashboard/steering wheel/touchscreen entertainment system.

The addition of visual stimulation in the form of LED lights showing aclear directionality will alert drivers and pedestrians in front of thedriver as well as behind the driver that they should stay clear andallow enough space for the driver to park safely. The addition of theaudio stimulation in the form of beeping will alert pedestrians who areunable to view the LED lighting that someone near them is attempting topark giving them the time necessary to adjust their trajectory. The mainpurpose of this disclosed system is saving lives while streamliningtraffic.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate exemplary operation of an embodiment of the PALsystem and corresponding facilitation of parallel parking. FIG. 2Aillustrates a vehicle 310 driving down a road 328, wherein the vehicleis improved with the disclosed PAL system. On the far right side is acurb 324 and on the far left is the traffic diving line 326. Parked nextto curb 324 are parked vehicles 311, 312, 313, 314, and 315. An openparking space 322 is available. PAL indicator 305 is activatedindicating to vehicle 334 that a parallel parking maneuver is imminentlyintended.

FIG. 2B illustrates vehicle 310 advancing past space 322 in preparationto execute a parking maneuver. Because the PAL indicator has beenactivated, the driver of vehicle 334 can be clearly made aware of theintended maneuver. Vehicle 334 stops behind space 322, such that vehicle310 has adequate room to park in space 322.

FIG. 2C illustrates a vehicle 310 executing a parallel parking maneuver.Vehicle 335 and other traffic can back up behind vehicle 334. However,because the driver of vehicle 334 understood the intentions of thedriver of vehicle 310, traffic does not get in the way of vehicle 310executing the desired maneuver. In this way, the PAL system enablesefficient parallel parking.

A PAL system light indicator can take many different forms. FIG. 3illustrates one exemplary light indicator that can be utilized with thePAL system. A parking light bar 20 is illustrated, with a white light 52in the center. While light 52 is illustrated as a single light, this canalso be a grid of lights. In one embodiment, white light 52 is a squaregrid instead of either a single light or a grid pattern. White light 52,in one embodiment, can be tied to a reverse gear in the vehicle, drawingmore attention to the vehicle backing up during a parking maneuver. Inanother embodiment, white light 52 can be used to indicate activation ofthe parking mode. White light 52 could be activated as a steady light,could pulsate, strobe, or be illuminated with any pattern that can beused to get attention and/or indicate a desire to park to a viewer. Anoptional display 58 indicating “PARALLEL” is illustrated as an exemplaryselectably illuminated display, aiding other drivers in distinguishingthe PAL indicator and parking mode from other indications such as anordinary turn signal.

On either side of white light 52 are red lights 54. While depicted as asingle light, this can also be a grid of lights arrayed in a number ofpatterns. In one embodiment, red light 54 can include a grid pattern ofsmaller lights. Arrows 55 and 56 can be used to indicate a desire toparallel park into a spot on either the left side or right side,respectively, of the vehicle. Arrows 55 and 56 are in addition to turnsignals additionally situated upon the vehicle, such that a driver ofanother vehicle can clearly distinguish between a normal turn signalindication and a signal that a parallel parking maneuver is desired.

A PAL system can be installed at the factory by a car manufacturer. Insuch an instance, parking light bar 20 can be a “dumb” system, withlights simply receiving electrical current based upon control by aremote module or computerized system within the vehicle. In anotherembodiment, the PAL system can be retrofitted to a vehicle that did notoriginally include the PAL system. In such an instance, parking lightbar 20 can be a “smart” system, including a computerized processorcapable of monitoring inputs, determining a parking indication to bemade based upon the monitored inputs, and controlling lights and/oraudio indicators in the bar and throughout the vehicle based upon thedetermined parking indication to be made.

According to one control process for the PAL system, a driver of theequipped vehicle activates a desire to parallel park button. At thatpoint, light 52 and display 58 are illuminated, indicating to otherdrivers that a parking maneuver is desired but not imminent. Once aparking space is spotted, the driver can indicate that either a parkingmaneuver to the right or to the left is desired, and the correspondingarrow 55 or 56 is illuminated, signaling to other drivers that a parkingmaneuver into a proximate spot is imminent.

Another exemplary embodiment of a PAL system parallel parking light barcan include an onboard microcomputer coupled with a street-map database,GPS, radar, and a display screen. Such a system can still be manuallyoperated exactly as the more basic version, it differs in that it alsohas a display screen mounted on the dash and an input system to initiatea “search and find” mode. When a driver decides that he or she wishes toparallel park, he or she activates the PAL system parallel parkingsystem's “search and find” mode, initiating a parking space search. ThePAL system parallel parking uses its onboard mapping database and aradar to scan the streets ahead. The GPS allows it to know its locationand the database to know where all of the legal parking spaces arelocated. Radar or light detection and ranging (LIDAR) then determines ifeach parking space is vacant or currently being occupied by anothervehicle. When an available space is located, the dash mounted systemsignals the driver. In one embodiment, instead of radar or LIDAR, acamera equipped vision system is used to locate a vacant parking space.

In one embodiment, after signaling the driver that a space is available,the computerized processor can automatically turns on the rear-facingPAL system parallel parking light bar. Even if the driver later rejectsthis proposed space as too small or difficult to parallel park into andturns off the rear lights, the light activation has alerted trafficbehind the driver that this vehicle is attempting to park and willlikely make future stops when a space is found.

In one embodiment, when the PAL system parallel parking light bar isactivated, an audio signal can accompany visual signals indicating toany surrounding pedestrians or bicyclists that a parallel parkingmaneuver is in process. In another embodiment, vehicle to vehiclecommunication, for example, by wireless communication, can enable aparking mode or active parking maneuver in one vehicle to be alertedwithin nearby vehicles.

It will be understood that the PAL system is intended to becomplementary to turn signal lights. PAL system lights can be operatedindependently of turn signal lights. In another embodiment, the PALsystem lights and the turn signal lights can be used together during aparking maneuver, for example, with the PAL lights and turn signallights blinking in unison or blinking alternatingly to draw attention tothe desired maneuver.

FIG. 4 illustrates exemplary steering wheel controls enabling a driverto control the PAL system. Steering wheel 110 is illustrated includingturn signal handle 120 and PAL system control buttons 130, 132, and 134.Button 130 is configured to initiate or cancel a parking mode. Anexemplary parking mode indicator light displaying “Parallel,” “Parking,”or “P” can be lit based upon activation of the parking mode. The drivercan then hit either button 132 to indicate a desired parking maneuver tothe left or button 134 to indicate a desired parking maneuver to theright, and the respective arrow lights can be activated based upon thebutton activations. Parking mode and/or activation of the arrow lightscan be automatically canceled, for example, by the vehicle stopping neara parking space and then accelerating away from the spot, indicating anaborted parallel parking attempt.

Activation of the parking mode or of arrow lights indicating to aparking space can include visual or audio feedback to the driver. Forexample, FIG. 4 illustrates instrument panel lights 140 including a “P”within a circle indicating activation of parking mode and 142 includinga left and right arrow indicating activation of arrow lights indicatinga direction of an imminent parking maneuver. In addition or in thealternative, an audio signal or message can remind the driver that thePAL system is operational.

The steering wheel controls of FIG. 4 are illustrative of controls thatcan be used to provide a user interface to the PAL system. Otherembodiments include buttons located on the instrument panel, inputs to atouch screen device installed to the vehicle, voice command inputs,inputs to a portable computerized device such as a smart phone incommunication (e.g. Bluetooth communication) with the vehicle, or anaftermarket button pack adhered to the instrument panel or windscreenand in wireless communication with an aftermarket installed PAL lightbar.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary control module operating the disclosedPAL system including a computerized processor. PAL module 30 can includeprocessing device 200 configured to operate computerized programming. Inthe illustrative embodiment illustrating optional features of the PALsystem, PAL module 30 includes a processing device 200, a user interface202, a street map and parking space database 203, communication device204, a memory device 206, a global positioning system (GPS) 207, acamera system 208, a radar system 209, and a LIDAR system 215. It isnoted that the PAL module 30 can include other components, some of thecomponents are not required in all embodiments, and a simplified versionof the control module can be operated, for example, including buttonswitch inputs and a relay device providing for blinking of connectedlights.

The processing device 200 can include memory, e.g., read only memory(ROM) and random access memory (RAM), storing processor-executableinstructions and one or more processors that execute theprocessor-executable instructions. In embodiments where the processingdevice 200 includes two or more processors, the processors can operatein a parallel or distributed manner. The processing device 200 canexecute the operating system of the PAL module 30. In the illustrativeembodiment, the processing device 200 also executes a locationdetermination module 210 and a radar, LIDAR, and video-processing module213, which are described in greater detail below. Processing device 200,utilizing modules 210 and 213, can operate programming to monitor inputsby the user; monitor environmental conditions around the vehicle such asthe geometric relationship of the vehicle to an open parking space;determine a parking intention of the driver; and activate PAL systemindication lights, audio outputs, and vehicle to vehicle or vehicle toinfrastructure communications to communicate an intention to parallelpark to drivers around the vehicle.

The user interface 202 is a device that allows a user to interact withthe PAL module 30. While one user interface 202 is shown, the term “userinterface” can include, but is not limited to, a touch screen, aphysical keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, and/or a speaker. The streetmap and parking space database 203 stores street maps and parking spacelocations. It is used by the PAL module 30 along with GPS device 207 tofind known parking spaces. A municipality could operate cameras or otherdevices and a computerized processor to provide a current status forknown parking spaces in an area. The communication device 204 is adevice that allows the PAL module 30 to communicate with another device,such as a remote server, to update database 203 with current informationon parking spaces.

The communication device 204, in PAL system embodiments utilizing anexemplary wireless control system in communication with a wireless PALlight bar, can include one or more wireless transceivers for performingwireless communication and/or one or more communication ports forperforming wired communication. In another embodiment, communicationsdevice 204 can be replaced or augmented by an electrical harnessconnection to vehicle systems and/or a PAL light bar.

The memory device 206 is a device that stores data generated or receivedby the PAL module 30. The memory device 206 can include, but is notlimited to, a hard disc drive, an optical disc drive, and/or a flashmemory drive.

The GPS 207 determines a location of the PAL module 30 by communicatingwith a plurality of GPS satellites. The GPS 207 can perform knowntriangulation techniques to determine the GPS coordinates of the PALmodule 30. It should be appreciated that while a GPS 207 is shown, anyother suitable component for determining the location of the vehiclesuch as cell phone tower triangulation can be implemented.

The camera vision system 208 is a digital video camera that captures aseries of digital photographs. The camera is aimed at parked vehiclesahead and uses computerized vision recognition software to determine ifa photographed parking space is occupied or not. The digital photographcan be a bitmap, a JPEG, a GIF, or any other suitably formatted file.These photographs can be a rapid series of still photos or capturedphotographs from a video camera. The camera can receive the instructionto capture images from the processing device 200 and can output thedigital photographs or video to the processing device 200. By doing so,the camera system can determine if a vehicle is present or not in anapproaching parking space, determine distances to objects or betweenobjects, and can provide information useful to parking.

The radar system 209 omits a radio signal and then receives this samesignal back after it is reflected back to it. By doing so, the radar candetermine if a vehicle is present or not in an approaching parkingspace, determine distances to objects or between objects, and canprovide information useful to parking.

The LIDAR system 215 omits laser light and then analyzes light that isreflected back to it. By doing so, the LIDAR can determine if a vehicleis present or not in an approaching parking space. By doing so, theLIDAR can determine if a vehicle is present or not in an approachingparking space, determine distances to objects or between objects, andcan provide information useful to parking.

The location determination module 210 uses data from the GPS 207 andstreet map and parking space database 203 to calculate where the vehicleis in relation to known parking spaces.

The radar, LIDAR, and video processing device 213 uses any informationfrom systems 208, 209, and 215 to determine a status and optionally asize of available space in a parking space. Combined with the locationdetermination module 210, the processing device can then signal thedriver that an available space has been located.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart 250 for exemplary processes for a driverindicate to those behind that he or she is attempting to parallel park.Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure can includenon-limiting examples of a light bar, LED lights, and a microprocessor,or any other similar computerized device capable of operating theprocesses disclosed herein.

Flowchart 250 begins at step 252. At step 254, the user initiates asearch for a parallel parking space. At step 256, the user decides if heor she prefers to conduct this search manually, with just his or hereyes, or to have the PAL system parallel parking indicator to use itsability to assist. If the decision is to do so un-aided, then duringstep 270, the driver actively searches for a suitable parking space.Step 272 is actually locating a suitable parallel parking space. Thenext step, 273, is to physically activate the PAL system parallelparking light bar, signaling to those behind that this vehicle is aboutto backup and parallel park

If the driver instead chooses to use the search function of the PALsystem parallel parking indicator, he or she next initiates step 258,turning the active search feature on. During step 260, the PAL systemparallel parking indicator is actively searching for a suitable space byusing Radar, LIDAR, or a camera vision system, in conjunction with theonboard GPS. The next step is 262, when a suitable space is located, anda signal is sent to the driver. The system then advances to step 264,sending an audible voice command signal to the driver that a space hasbeen found. The actually signaling to those following is step 266, whenthe PAL system parallel parking indicator is automatically turned on. Atstep s74, the driver begins to parallel park his or her vehicle,completing this maneuver at step 276. At step 278, the PAL systemparallel parking indicator and the process is turned off and the processis completed.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the flow diagrams illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, processes, and computer program products according tovarious embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, eachblock in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module,segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executableinstructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It willalso be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/orflowchart illustrations, may be implemented by special purposehardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, orcombinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.These computer program instructions may also be stored in acomputer-readable medium that can direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing device to function in a particular manner,such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable mediumproduce an article of manufacture including instruction means whichimplement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks. The above description of illustrated examplesof the present disclosure, including what is described in the Abstract,are not intended to be exhaustive or to be limitation to the preciseforms disclosed. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, thedisclosure are described herein for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible without departing from the broaderspirit and scope of the present disclosure. Indeed, it is appreciatedthat the specific example voltages, currents, frequencies, power rangevalues, times, etc., are provided for explanation purposes and thatother values may also be employed in other embodiments and examples inaccordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate an alternative exemplary embodiment of a PALsystem where an indication can be made in both a left and rightdirection and a forward and rear direction. Indication lights can beused to indicate whether the driver of a vehicle intends to park in aparking space in front of the vehicle or behind the vehicle. Asillustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7C, a top half of an arrow can be used toindicate a parking intention to a parking space in front of the vehicle,and, as illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 7D, a bottom half of an arrow can beused to indicate a parking intention to a parking space behind thevehicle. In one embodiment, such controls can be manually set. Inanother embodiment, the relationship of the spot to the vehicle can beautomatically determined by sensors and a processor. In anotherembodiment, the display can be made to automatically change as thevehicle moves in relation to the parking space.

FIG. 7A illustrates PAL light bar 400 including a central light 410, aparallel indicator 420, and a plurality of smaller lights 424 whichcombine to form indicator arrow 430. Indicator arrow 430 indicates to aleft direction. Further a top half of the arrow point is lit while abottom half of the arrow point is not lit. This configuration of arrow430 can be used to indicate to an intention to parallel park to the leftin a position in front of the vehicle. Central light 410 is not lit,which can be used to indicate either that the vehicle is not in areverse gear or to selectively not alert other drivers of an imminentintent to back into a parking space.

FIG. 7B illustrates PAL light bar 400 including a central light 410, aparallel indicator 420, and a plurality of smaller lights which combineto form indicator arrow 440. Indicator arrow 440 indicates to a leftdirection. Further a bottom half of the arrow point is lit while a tophalf of the arrow point is not lit. This configuration of arrow 440 canbe used to indicate to an intention to parallel park to the left in aposition behind the vehicle. Central light 410 is lit, which can be usedto indicate either that the vehicle is currently in a reverse gear or toselectively alert other drivers of an imminent intent to back into aparking space.

FIG. 7C illustrates PAL light bar 400 including a central light 410, aparallel indicator 420, and a plurality of smaller lights which combineto form indicator arrow 450. Indicator arrow 450 indicates to a rightdirection. Further a top half of the arrow point is lit while a bottomhalf of the arrow point is not lit. This configuration of arrow 450 canbe used to indicate to an intention to parallel park to the right in aposition in front of the vehicle. Central light 410 is not lit, whichcan be used to indicate either that the vehicle is not in a reverse gearor to selectively not alert other drivers of an imminent intent to backinto a parking space.

FIG. 7D illustrates PAL light bar 400 including a central light 410, aparallel indicator 420, and a plurality of smaller lights which combineto form indicator arrow 460. Indicator arrow 460 indicates to a rightdirection. Further a bottom half of the arrow point is lit while a tophalf of the arrow point is not lit. This configuration of arrow 460 canbe used to indicate to an intention to parallel park to the right in aposition behind the vehicle. Central light 410 is lit, which can be usedto indicate either that the vehicle is currently in a reverse gear or toselectively alert other drivers of an imminent intent to back into aparking space. It will be appreciated that the entire left or entireright arrow of the light bar of FIGS. 7A-7D can alternatively beutilized to simply provide a signal for a maneuver to the left or right,respectively.

FIG. 8 illustrates a vehicle with an aftermarket PAL light bar affixedto a rear sill of the rear window of the vehicle. Vehicle 500 isillustrated including turn signals 520 and 530. Additionally, PAL lightbar 510 is illustrated affixed to the vehicle such that a driver in avehicle behind vehicle 500 can be made aware of the parallel parkingintentions of the driver of vehicle 500.

FIG. 9 illustrates the PAL light bar of FIG. 8 in detail. Light bar 510includes parking indicator 540, left forward arrow 554, left rearwardarrow 556, right forward arrow 550, and right rearward arrow 552.Indicator 540 can be selectively illuminated to communicate an intentionto parallel park. Arrows 550, 552, 554, and 556 can be selectivelyilluminated to communicate and intention to a particular parking spaceor direction. Light bar 510 is affixed to window sill 560 with threadedfasteners 570 and 572. It will be appreciated that such an aftermarketdevice can be fastened to the vehicle with glue, magnets, suction cups,or any other similar attachment method known in the art. Exemplary lightbar 510 includes wireless communication with an activation devicesituated to be available to the driver of the vehicle.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary PAL light bar configured toadditionally serve as a brake light. Some countries require vehicles tohave a rearward-facing brake light, for example, located in a top middleof the rear window of the vehicle. Light bar 600 includes a matrix ofindividually controlled lights 602 which can be selectively lit. Theexemplary light bar 600 includes ten vertically oriented columns andfive horizontally oriented rows of lights, although any pattern oflights capable of indicating the intention of the driver can be used.Light bar 600 can selectively light all lights 602 to indicate brakingor can selectively light a portion of lights to spell out the exemplaryword “PARK” and an arrow pointing in a direction.

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate an exemplary PAL light bar comprising aplurality of selectively lit lights. Light bar 700 is similar to lightbar 600 of FIG. 10, although light bar 700 can be located anywhere onthe vehicle and does not necessarily indicate a braking function inaddition to an intention to parallel park. Light bar 700 includesfourteen vertically oriented columns and six horizontally oriented rowsof lights, although any pattern of lights capable of indicating theintention of the driver can be used. FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate anexemplary repeating sequence of displays that can be used to illustrateboth a braking function and a parallel parking intention. FIG. 11Aillustrates all lights of light bar 700 lit, for example, indicatingapplication of a brake of the vehicle. FIG. 11B illustrates a portion720 of the lights of light bar 700 lit to indicate a “P” to indicate adesire to parallel park. Additionally, side portions 710 of light bar700 can be maintained in a lit pattern to continue to indicate aapplication of a brake. FIG. 11C illustrates a portion 730 indicating anarrow point to the left and downward, indicating a desire to park in aparking space to the left and rearward of the vehicle. Additionally,side portions 710 of light bar 700 can be maintained in a lit pattern tocontinue to indicate a application of a brake. The patterns of FIGS.11A-11C can be cycled upon light bar 700 to indicate both activation ofa brake function for the vehicle and an intention to park upon the samedisplay. In another embodiment, light bar 700 can be configured to flashwords such as “PARKING” and “LEFT” in sequence to indicate a desiredparallel parking maneuver to other drivers.

In addition or in the alternative to a light bar, a digital display sucha liquid crystal display can be used to communicate a parallel parkingintent to other vehicles. Such a display would need to be bright enoughto attract the attention of and clearly communicate to drivers of othervehicles.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary turn signal including PAL indicatorlights incorporated therewith. Rearward facing turn signal device 800includes lamp 810 configured to illuminate face 812 to selectivelyindicate turning and/or braking of the vehicle. Face 812 is typicallycolored red. Lamp 820 is additionally included and is configured toilluminate face 822 to selectively indicate activation of a reverse gearin the vehicle. Face 822 is typically clear or silver in color toprovide a white light to a viewer. Signal device 800 is additionallyequipped with PAL indicator lights to indicate for parallel parkingmaneuvers to the left side of the vehicle. Parallel parking mode portion830 includes a “P” indication and can be selectively illuminated toindicate to other drivers an intention to parallel park. Arrow 840includes arrow head 842 and arrow shaft sections 844 and 846, which canbe lit constantly or lit in cycles to indicate a desire to park to theleft and front of the vehicle. Similarly, arrow 850 includes arrow head852 and arrow shaft sections 854 and 856, which can be lit constantly orlit in cycles to indicate a desire to park to the left and rearward ofthe vehicle. A mirror image turn signal to signal device 800 can be usedon a right side of the vehicle to indicate similarly for maneuvers tothe right side of the vehicle.

FIG. 13 illustrates a headlamp device of a vehicle including PALindicator lights incorporated therewith. Headlamp device 900 includeslamp 910 configured to shine headlights in front of a vehicle. Device900 further includes PAL indicator lights to indicate for parallelparking maneuvers to the left side of the vehicle. Arrow head 920 can belit with arrow shaft sections 924 and 926 to indicate a desire to parkto the right and rearward of the vehicle. Arrow head 922 can be lit witharrow shaft sections 924 and 926 to indicate a desire to park to theright and forward of the vehicle. Arrow heads 920 and 922 and arrowshaft sections 924 and 926 can be of a bright color, such as amber, orcontrasting color, such as blue, to provide for clear communication of aparallel parking intention even when lamp 910 is illuminated.

FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary controls enabling a driver to control thePAL system installed to an instrument panel of a vehicle. Instrumentpanel 1000 is illustrated including speed gauge 1002 and radio controls1004. Parking mode activation button 1010 is configured to initiate orcancel a parking mode. Desired parallel parking maneuver buttons 1012are configured to indicate a desired parking maneuver into a spot to theleft and front of the vehicle, to the right and front of the vehicle, tothe left and rear of the vehicle, or to the right and rear of thevehicle. Additionally or alternatively, camera device 1020 is situatedon instrument panel 1000 and is configured to capture images of thedriver. By analyzing images of the driver, hand gestures, visual cues,or head orientation of the driver can be used to indicate to aparticular spot and can be used as inputs to the PAL system. In oneembodiment, a pair of camera devices can be used, such that thedifference in two simultaneous images or sequence of images from the twocameras can be used to judge and receive as inputs the motions of thedriver with improved accuracy.

FIG. 15 illustrates a vehicle equipped with the PAL system providing anaudio warning to a pedestrian walking proximately to the vehicle.Vehicle 1200 is illustrated equipped with detection device 1210including a view angle 1212 behind the vehicle. Pedestrian 1220, whocould be visually impaired and may not see PAL light bars equipped tovehicle 1200, might accidentally walk into the path of vehicle 1200performing a parallel parking maneuver. Vehicle 1200 includes a speakerdevice configured to emit an audible message outside the vehicle stating“WARNING VEHICLE PARALLEL PARKING” to caution pedestrian 1220. Such anaudio warming can be useful not only in alerting pedestrians andbicyclists, but can also improve confidence of the driver of vehicle1200 to overcome fears of parallel parking.

FIG. 16 illustrates a vehicle equipped with the PAL system situatedbetween two open parking spaces. Vehicle 1100 is illustrated includingturn signals 1110, headlamps 1120 and a brake lamp 1101 equipped toindicate a braking function and additionally to indicate activation of aparking mode. Any of turn signals 1110, headlamps 1120 and a brake lamp1101 can be equipped with arrow indicators or word designationsaccording to the disclosure. Curb 1106 is illustrated including openparking spaces 1102 and 1104 separated by paint line 1108 defining theparking spaces. Vehicle 1100 can use any of the inputs disclosed hereinto identify the candidate parking spaces as open and determine a driverintention to one of the spaces. According to one embodiment, the PALsystem can determine a bearing 1130 to parking space 1102 and a bearing1140 to parking space 1104, and based upon a time weighted averageviewpoint of the driver, as determined by a camera taking images of thedriver's face, the PAL system can indicate to a particular spaceselected from spot 1102 and spot 1104 based upon that average viewpoint.

The PAL system can utilize vehicle sensors such as cameras, radar, orLIDAR to confirm presence of an open parking space or parameters relatedto a parking space. FIG. 17 illustrates a vehicle equipped with the PALsystem evaluating a parking space as a candidate for a parallel parkingmaneuver. Vehicle 1300 is illustrated including a PAL system installedthereto including light bar indicator 1310. Parking space 1320 isillustrated next to curb 1330. Vehicles 1332 and 1334 are parked oneither side of parking space 1320. Vehicle 1300 is additionally equippedwith sensors that enable a computerized PAL module within vehicle 1300to determine that parking space 1320 is available and further todetermine parameters of the parking space including how much distance isavailable between vehicles 1332 and 1334. According to one embodiment, athreshold required parking space width can be compared to a monitoredparking space width, as determined by the sensor inputs, and an outputto the driver can be generated describing the parking space. Forexample, if the monitored parking space width is greater than thethreshold required parking space width, a positive or affirming messagecan be provided to the driver confirming that the parking space is wideenough to execute a parallel parking maneuver. If the monitored parkingspace width is less than the threshold required parking space width, abuzzer or negative message can be provided to the driver indicating thatthe parking space is not wide enough for the intended maneuver. In oneembodiment, the PAL system can be immediately activated for a confirmedparking space or can be prohibited from activating for a parking spacethat is determined to be not wide enough. In one embodiment, thethreshold width that the PAL system uses to judge a parking space can beadjustable by the driver.

The PAL system, in one embodiment, notifies onlookers with both a lightbar and an audio message that a parking maneuver is being initiated toanother spot. In addition, any light or indicator system known in theart can be used to indicate to a viewer that the vehicle is being parkedin a particular spot. FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary vehicle equippedwith PAL system using a laser to project a pattern and visuallydesignate a parking space in which it is about to park. Vehicle 1400 isillustrated including PAL parking mode indicator light 1410 and adirectional arrow 1412 indicating to a parking direction. Parking space1430 is illustrated adjacent to vehicle 1400. Vehicle 1400 is equippedwith systems disclosed herein for evaluating and identifying an openparking space. A laser emitter 1420 is illustrated configured accordingto devices known in the art such that emitter 1420 can scan groundproximate to vehicle 1400 and project a visible pattern 1440 on theground, in particular at night or when luminescent paint is used on theparking space. In this way, the PAL system can further provide visualwarning to an onlooker that a parking maneuver is about be performed.

FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary vehicle equipped with the PAL systemautomatically entering a parking mode based upon behavior of the vehiclein relation to parking spaces in a parking lot. Vehicles 1530 and 1520are illustrate upon parking lot surface 1500. An aisle 1510 is definedas a space between rows 1512 and 1514 of parking spaces. Vehiclestraverse aisle 1510, traveling substantially perpendicularly to parkingspace lines 1518 until a parking space is identified, and then thevehicle executing a parking maneuver can turn toward a parking spacesuch that it is no longer perpendicular to lines 1518. A longitudinalaxis 1522 of vehicle 1520 can be defined. By comparing axis 1522 toparking space lines 1518, the PAL system can keep the parking mode in astandby state because axis 1522 remains perpendicular to lines 1518. Inanother example, longitudinal axis 1536 of vehicle 1530 can be defined.By comparing axis 1536 to parking space lines 1518, the PAL system canactivate the parking mode because axis 1536 is less than some thresholdparking angle as compared to lines 1518, indicating that the vehicle1530 has turned toward a parking space. Parking mode 1532 and directionarrow 1534 can be activated based upon the system comparing axis 1536 tolines 1518. Additionally, based upon the indicated direction and apositional relationship of vehicle 1530 to parking space 1516, the PALsystem of vehicle 1530 can automatically identify parking space 1516 asthe target parking space and provide a laser light pattern 1538 withinparking space 1516, as disclosed in relation to FIG. 18. Additionally,vehicle 1530 is illustrated providing an audio parking warning.

FIG. 20 illustrates exemplary vehicles equipped with the PAL systemautomatically entering a parking mode based upon behavior of the vehiclein relation to an open parking space along a side of the roadway, inaccordance with the present disclosure. Parking space 1600 is illustrateon a roadway between parked vehicle 1602 and 1604. Based uponidentification of parking space 1600 and behavior of the vehicle inrelation to the parking space, the PAL system can automatically enterparking mode. For example, a vehicle 1610 is illustrated in front ofparking space 1600 preparing to back into the space and an alternativevehicle 1620 is illustrated preparing to pull forward into parking space1600. Vehicle 1610 includes front wheels 1611 and 1613. By comparing anangle 1614 of front wheels 1611 and 1613 to longitudinal axis 1612 ofvehicle 1610, an intention of the driver of vehicle 1610 to pull intospace 1600 can be inferred. Additionally, information like the speed ofvehicle 1610, a forward or reverse gear of vehicle 1610, or proximity ofa navigational waypoint for vehicle 1610 can further be used to inferthe intention of the driver. The PAL system can activate indicatorlights 1616 based upon the behavior of vehicle 1610. Similarly, vehicle1620 includes front wheels 1621 and 1623. By comparing an angle 1624 offront wheels 1621 and 1623 to longitudinal axis 1622 of vehicle 1620, anintention of the driver of vehicle 1620 to pull into space 1600 can beinferred. Additionally, information like the speed of vehicle 1620, aforward or reverse gear of vehicle 1620, proximity of another vehicle1610, or proximity of a navigational waypoint for vehicle 1620 canfurther be used to infer the intention of the driver. The PAL system canactivate indicator lights 1626 based upon the behavior of vehicle 1620.

The disclosure has described certain preferred embodiments andmodifications of those embodiments. Further modifications andalterations may occur to others upon reading and understanding thespecification. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not belimited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed as the best modecontemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosurewill include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appendedclaims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A system operated within a vehicle to indicate an intention of a driver of the vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver, the system comprising: an electronic control device operated by and receiving control inputs from the driver; a sensor monitoring parking spaces proximate to the vehicle; a computerized processor monitoring an orientation of the vehicle in relation to the parking spaces; and a display comprising a light bar generating a signal based upon the monitored orientation and the control inputs to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle, the light bar comprising a communications device configured to provide wireless communication with the electronic control device, the signal comprising: an arrow pointing to the left side of the vehicle distinct from a turn signal indicating an intended left turn; and an arrow pointing to the right side of the vehicle distinct from a turn signal indicating an intended right turn.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the signal further comprises a parking mode indication.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the parking mode indication comprises one of a display indicating the word parallel, a display indicating the word parking, and a display indicating the letter P.
 4. The system of claim 1, further including an audio message provided to warn pedestrians proximate to the vehicle.
 5. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor monitoring locations of the pedestrians; and wherein providing the audio message is based upon the locations of the pedestrians.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the display is further configured to display a light displaying a braking function for the vehicle.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the display comprises a matrix of individually operable lights.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the display is further configured to display a textual message communicating the intention of the driver to execute the parallel parking maneuver.
 9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a laser emitter configured to display a pattern upon an intended parking space.
 10. A system operated within a vehicle to indicate an intention of a driver of the vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver, the system comprising: a display generating a signal to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle; a sensor monitoring a steering angle of the vehicle; and a computerized processor controlling the display generating the signal, wherein the signal is generated based upon the steering angle; wherein the signal is distinct from a turn signal for the vehicle indicating an intended left turn or right turn.
 11. A system operated within a vehicle to indicate an intention of a driver of the vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver, the system comprising: a display generating a signal to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle; a sensor monitoring parking spaces proximate to the vehicle; and a computerized processor monitoring an orientation of the vehicle in relation to the parking spaces and controlling the display generating the signal based upon the monitored orientation; wherein the signal is distinct from a turn signal for the vehicle indicating an intended left turn or right turn.
 12. The system of claim 11, further comprising: a sensor monitoring a parking space proximate to the vehicle; and a computerized processor monitoring the sensor and indicating whether the parking space is large enough for the vehicle to park within. 